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Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a cheesy baked dish with beef, ricotta, and marinara perfect for family dinners
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 20 –24 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese for filling
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Add chopped onion and garlic, then sauté until soft and fragrant.
  4. Season the beef mixture with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until smooth.
  6. Combine the ricotta mixture with the cooked beef and mix well.
  7. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  8. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, then place them in the dish.
  9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
  10. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
  11. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Cook pasta shells just until al dente to prevent tearing while stuffing.
Let the beef mixture cool slightly before mixing with ricotta to avoid curdling.
Use a spoon or piping bag to easily fill the shells.
Do not overcrowd the baking dish to allow even cooking.
Cover with foil for the first part of baking if you want a softer top.
Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Let the dish rest before serving so it holds its shape.